Unified communications allows employees to connect from anywhere, on any device, at any time. In addition, it is a cornerstone technology for allowing businesses to pursue digital transformation, with features that support innovation and improve collaboration for faster decision-making and increased productivity. How can you build a successful UC strategy for your business?
Unified communications integrates all communications technologies and formats in a single application, from email and video conferencing to instant messaging and desktop sharing. In order to successfully implement this disruptive technology, you’ll need a cohesive UC strategy with these five steps:
Get Buy-In: Before you narrow down your UC solution choices, get input from employees in different departments and at different levels. Ask them what features would make their jobs easier and streamline processes. Consider creating discussion groups where employees can talk about what they would like out of a new communications technology.
Examine Current Technology and Set Goals: Assess the current state of your communications solutions and whether there is currently any unification of features and tools. For many organizations, some of their communications tools are already integrated, but telephony is isolated from them. Telephony should be at the center of any UC strategy to give the end user an optimized experience.
It’s also important to examine video conferencing, instant messaging, and live chat because they are formats favored by customers who want instant responses.
Use the feedback from employees and the current technology you’re accessing to determine operational goals for your UC implementation. You may determine that minimal downtime, increase in user satisfaction, or lower operating expenses are your most critical reasons for implementing a new solution.
Develop a Comprehensive Strategy: Every business has a unique legacy communications situation, plus goals around their UC adoption that are tailored to their business objectives. Depending on your current technology, you may find that a hybrid solution best allows you to enjoy certain elements of unified communications while continuing to use your existing private branch exchange (PBX) hardware.
It’s also important to choose a solution designed to keep pace with your future requirements. Even as you transition to unified communications, technologies will be evolving, so include an evaluation of the lifespan of options you are considering.
Choose a Provider: There are many options available on the market, so how should you narrow down which UC solution is best for your enterprise? Here are a few factors to include in your decision:
- Choose a provider that owns local session border controllers (SBCs) that ensure smooth communication.
- Carefully consider whether an open-source or proprietary solution is right for your business.
- Ask for a list of businesses the provider has worked with that are similar in size and scope to yours.
- Find out what level of support you will have during installation and in the days following, including whether they offer training to your team.
Transitioning with a UC strategy is more than a communications upgrade: it’s a cultural and disruptive transformation for your business that equips you for growth. Contact us at Safari Solutions for assistance in choosing the unified communications solution that supports your growth objectives with a holistic approach to a thriving business environment.